A pledge-taking ceremony to mark the observation of National Anti-Terrorism Day, which is usually observed on May 21, was observed here today.
The ceremony was attended by officers and officials of the district.
In her introductory speech, the Deputy Commissioner of South West Khasi Hills, Caramai Kharkongor said that this day is observed as National Anti-Terrorism Day to observe the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated on this day,
The day is observed every year with a view to wean the youth away from terrorism and violence using innovative ways to fight the forces of disruption threatening human lives and values and also to propagate the message of anti-terrorism, which is a direct threat to national security.
Kharkongor reminded that Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was another victim of terrorism and there have been many civilians who have also lost their lives to this evil over the years.
She even cited Afghanistan as an example of a whole country being ruled by a group – the Taliban – that has been designated as a terrorist group by the international community.
